Basic Gum Disease Care Not Enough To Help Diabetics

Posted by: Admin

May 26, 2016

Non-surgical treatment for gum disease may not go far enough in helping to improve the blood sugar levels in diabetics, a study has found.

Research published in the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) suggested that the less-drastic approach to treating periodontal disease might not actually make a massive difference when it comes to curing it – and as a result has little impact on making it easier for type 2 diabetes patients to manage the condition.

Gum disease has been linked with diabetes in several previous studies, as well as Alzheimer's, rheumatoid arthritis and cardiovascular disease. The inflammatory condition can damage the tissue around the teeth, possibly leading to tooth loss if not treated properly.

At Museum Dental Suites, we can help treat receding gum lines caused by periodontal disease with a gingival graft known as soft tissue grafting. This should allow you to feel less self conscious over how your gums may look and will also reduce pain and sensitivity around your teeth.

AAP president Dr Stuart Froum said that there was evidence to suggest that the more intensive therapies for the condition could be effective in glycemic control and that the research did not indicate that there was no link between gum disease and periodontitis.

He commented: "I’m excited to see research that continues to explore the association between these two chronic, and highly prevalent, diseases. These findings are simply one piece of a complex puzzle and open the door for further investigation."

A separate recent study published by the AAP found that, over the last 20 years, there had been countless pieces of evidence to suggest a link between the two conditions. It recommended that undergoing an annual gum check is the best course of action for diabetics, while they should also brush their teeth at least twice a day and also make sure that flossing forms part of their daily routine.